Regroup. Reprioritize

So this week is my first week of training for Chicago. The problem? I don't really have a schedule. And to the extent I do, I am certainly not following it. :)

Here is the deal: I don't have a goal. I don't know what I want for the weeks ahead. I had written up Pfitz's 18 week / up to 70 mpw program. But that is just unrealistic. And I am about to start my Capital Mile training next week. I love the Capital Mile and want to do well this year. But I also know miler training and high mileage marathon training are inapposite. So, there is part of my dilemma.

My other part is simple motivation. 13 years ago I started running and the whole thing was just novel and great. Then I had kids and it was a nice way to get back in shape and have some much-needed quiet time. 6 years ago, I moved back to WI and got inspired to start racing. So for 3 years, I was trying new distances and PRing like mad. Then 2.5 years ago, I went back to work and juggled working full time, being a decent mom, and still marathoning. But now, I am sort of in a rut. The marathon PR is highly unlikely unless I can boost up my miles. But I really don't have time. And I don't really have the motivation to do it.

Work is busy. And I want to give lots of my time to my family. And I want to continue doing GOTR and the other activities I do. So, I need to figure out what to do. For now, I am going to take the next couple of weeks by feel and try to get my head into the game - whatever game that may be.

On a super positive note, I will share with you one of the fabulous cards I received Tuesday night at our end-of the season Girls on the Run celebration:

"Dear Coach Mindi, Thanks for telling me to always believe in myself and never give up. You taught me how to be proud of what I do and how I look. Thanks a lot Mindi! :)"

Yup. Good stuff. Really good stuff.

Here is our end-of season video. Warning, it is 10 minutes long. But it is a fun summary of our season. :)